Sandtray 101 in Play Therapy – January 23, 2026 – Live/Virtual

This play therapy training is offered Live In-Person (3-Contact CE’s) and Virtual via Zoom (3 Live-Webinar CE’s).

This introductory training offers play therapists a hands-on exploration of Sandtray Therapy, a developmentally appropriate, expressive modality that supports children and adolescents in safely accessing and processing their inner worlds. Rooted in the principles of play therapy, sand tray work allows clients to use miniatures and sand to create symbolic scenes that reflect their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, often without needing words.  

In this experiential workshop, participants will learn the foundational principles of Sandtray therapy, rooted in a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, from setting up your space to guiding clients through transformative, nonverbal expression. Whether you’re new to sand tray or looking to deepen your understanding, this training will provide the tools to begin incorporating sand tray into play therapy.  

Learning Objectives

1. Describe how Sandtray Therapy aligns with the core principles of play therapy.  
2. Identify the developmental benefits of sand tray work for children in play therapy.  
3. Set up a sand tray environment that supports child-centered, experiential play therapy.  
4. Use miniatures and sand to support symbolic expression in play therapy.  
5. Explain the therapist’s role in observing and responding while using sand tray in play therapy.  
6. Demonstrate strategies for integrating sand tray into play therapy sessions across different stages of development, from a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach.  

CRISTINA ALVAREZ

LPC, EMDR TRAINED
Cristina Alvarez joined the Center for Counseling and Family Relationships in 2018. She earned her Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Cristina became Licensed as a Professional Counselor in 2018. Her background includes counseling in a private university setting where she helped college students cope and adapt with life transitions and as a crisis counselor for children in schools.

Cristina believes in using the strengths and resources of each client. She enjoys seeing clients set and attain their goals through the counseling relationship and using creative resources. Cristina helps clients to explore areas of their life at their own pace.

Cancellation and Refund Policy:
This training is non-refundable unless cancelled by training provider. The event will be cancelled if fewer than 6 participants.